Heartbeat bill introduced after heated floor exchange; sponsor cites constitutional authority
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Summary
Representative Nyman introduced the Human Heartbeat Act to bar elective abortions after a detectable fetal heartbeat; the measure drew objections from minority leaders about procedure and constitutional strategy but passed introduction and was sent to committee.
Representative Nyman introduced House Bill 126, the "Human Heartbeat Act," saying the bill would prevent elective abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detectable, while including exceptions for maternal health and other limited circumstances. "This bill will prevent that and the fact that it will prevent only abortions up to a detectable heartbeat is found," Nyman said during floor remarks.
Opponents on the floor framed the question as whether to spend budget-session floor time on a highly contested social issue and urged pursuing a constitutional amendment instead. Minority Floor Leader Yin said the legislature should consider whether social bills belong in a budget session and suggested a constitutional amendment would be the proper vehicle for a statewide change in rights. The sponsor responded that the legislature has authority under the cited constitutional provision to enact restrictions that protect life and the public interest.
The House recorded a roll-call introduction (51 aye, 10 no, 1 excused) and assigned the measure to committee number 10 (Labor). The bill will receive committee-level hearings where legal counsel, constitutional analysis and outside testimony will be considered.
Provenance: Sponsor and opposition remarks recorded on the House floor during the Feb. 10 session.